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The third generation Porsche Boxster has been unveiled, with its maker opting for evolution, rather than radical change. The car has been both widened and lengthened, and larger wheels have been used, to improve handling.

The kerb weight has also been cut to improve roadholding and performance, while also reducing fuel consumption.

Combined with fuel saving measures such as direct fuel injection, stop and start, energy recuperation and electro-mechanical steering, the Boxster will now return 36.7mpg on the combined cycle (35.3mpg for the more powerful 'S' variant), a figure which Porsche claims is 15 per cent better than the old model.

The flat-six engine displaces 2.7 litres in the standard model and 3.4 litres in the Boxster S. The smaller engine delivers 265bhp, with the larger unit putting out 315bhp. Both have a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, with Porsche's twin-clutch PDK gearbox available as an option.

With the twin-clutch option, the Boxster S will get from 0-62mph in 5 seconds; 0.6 seconds faster than the rival Mercedes SLK 350 and 0.2 seconds faster than the BMW Z4 35i, despite all having similar power outputs.

Further optional extras are taken from Porsche's more hardcore offerings. Dynamic Transmission Mounts, first seen on the 911 GT3 RS, compensate for the movement of the engine when driving, whilst Porsche Torque Vectoring - until now another 911 only option - uses a mechanical limited slip differential to aid traction during hard cornering.

Aesthetically, the Boxster has also evolved; the new car is sharper, with more pronounced edges. The profile of the windscreen has been changed, and the model has much shorter overhangs front and rear.

The interior has also been redesigned, offering more space than previous models. In a nod to the Carrera GT, the centre console is now more pronounced, improving cabin ergonomics. It also features a new seven-inch touchscreen to control the new MP3 compatible audio interface.

The new Porsche Boxster will go on sale in the UK on April 28. Prices start at £37,589, rising to £45,384 for the Boxster S.

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